New Children's Boutique Opens in Campbell

Cara Green and Elise Alden watch their children go in and out of the small store inside The Courtyard while they unpack clothes and toys and onesies with moustaches.

The two women grew up together since the third grade. Green moved to Los Angeles and Alden lived in San Jose. Green returned to the Bay Area and settled Gilroy, while Alden relocated to Los Gatos.

When Green's cousin decided to close her shop in downtown Campbell, the two women saw the next endeavor they could embark on together.

"Me and Elise were chatting, 'How fun would it be to share a store?'” Green says while unfolding lace rompers. "It all happened really fast."

Children's clothes and accessories that stood out in style and quality was something both women felt passionate about.

"For moms of our generation, its hard to find things you like amidst the mass manufactured, plastic generic things," Alden says. "We look for things that are in style but different. More unique and affordable."

"I'm not going to pay $100 for a dress," Green adds.

The two women loved to shop on etsy.com for unique pieces but wanted a place locally to go in and feel the fabric and try on the clothes.

"We thought there was a need," Alden says.

The boutique, simply named Stripes and located across from at 327 E. Campbell Ave. carries a collection of handmade and organic items, many of which are made locally. It also carries packaged pieces like wooden toys and stuffed animals.

Ladybug tutus, lace rompers and hand-knit sweaters by Campbell artist Devorah Ginden adorn the store along with the namesake stripes on one wall and blackboard paint on another.

Handmade, reversible booties in various patterns including pink elephants and newsboy caps in plaid and cars are some of the accessories found in this new boutique.

Stylish nursing covers in bold patterns, owl pillows and graphic art are handmade by Green and Alden.

"I don’t understand why you’d pay $40 for a swatch of cloth that was manufactured in a factory," Alden says.

Besides the availability of the space and their connection to the outgoing tenant, the two women decided to open up in Campbell because it is an ideal location.

"We know Campbell has a ton of family events and the farmers market," Alden says. "There are a lot of young families like us, a lot of people. There are a lot of things going on. It has a sweet, small-town feel but a lot going for it."

The grand opening will take place May 26, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and will include face painting, balloons, pop corn machine, cupcakes, lemonade and a gift card give away.

"We’re interested in what local moms want," Alden says. "We’re always improving. Our goal is if we don’t have it, let us know, we might be able to get it."